Rv article: Simple Solution to a Common Problem

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The purpose of this advice is hopefully to provide some help in identifying and fixing common problems on RV’s. The first thing I want to advise on is for you to acquire some common tools necessary in performing routine maintenance which, in many cases, will negate corrective maintenance down the road. Besides mechanical tools e.g.: screwdrivers (all types), pliers, (including diagonal, needlenose, etc.) and a good open/box end wrench set is a socket set which includes a variety of 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ drive SAE and Metric sockets.

Another important tool in your inventory is a analog type (with the needle) multimeter, not a digital type. I stress this because the analog type is reliable, inexpensive (approx. $10 at Wal-Mart) and easy to use once you read the instructions that come with it as compared to a digital type. Were now ready to look at and solve some common problems. #1-Battery maintenance. Coach batteries come in a variety of brands with two prominent deep cycle types in most units.

The first type requires you to check the fluid (electrolyte) level on a periodic basis to ensure the fluid level is not low. A low level is normally indicated by looking in of the individual cell module with a flash light to see if the “CBS” eye is reflected back to you. Add sufficient “DI” water very slowly until the “CBS” eye comes into view. Try not to over fill each cell to prevent overflow either by thermal expansion or movement going down the road. Since electrolyte is a mixture normally of sulphuric acid and water an accumulation of this fluid around the top of the battery will eventually corrode any thing it comes in contact with. If this occurs a solution of water and ammonia (enough that you can smell it) applied to the areas in question will neutralize the acid solution and prevent any further corrosive action.

A good source is plain Windex with ammonia available any where. Another method is a paste of baking soda and water applied to the area in question followed by a good water rinse. I prefer the ammonia and water because it leaves no residue. The other deep cycle batteries are the sealed variety which do not need the fluid checked but only to ensure the cleanliness of the tops . The connections on each type should be checked clean and tight. Extreme care should be taken when checking the tightness of the connections including to never use a wrench that can cross over to the other pole of the battery or to ground during this process. Also, remember no open type flame around a battery since all batteries offgas explosive gasses.

After all work is complete and the connections are dry, coat them with a grease or just plain Vaseline to protect the connection from future corrosion.